Rockwood Park & Museum, The Brandywine Valley Travel Guide

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Discover history and beauty at Rockwood Park & Museum, a stunning Victorian estate with gardens, mansion tours, and year-round events in Wilmington, DE.

Step back in time at Rockwood Park & Museum, a stunning 19th-century English-style country estate in Wilmington, Delaware. Explore the Rural Gothic mansion, wander through the historic gardens, and discover a blend of natural beauty and rich history. With walking trails, ghost tours, and seasonal events, Rockwood offers a unique experience for all visitors.

A brief summary to Rockwood Park & Museum

4651 Washington Street Extension, Wilmington, Delaware, 19809, US
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Thursday 10 am-4 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Sunday 12 pm-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Rockwood Park & Museum.

Check the New Castle County website for upcoming events, including festivals, concerts, and holiday celebrations.
New Castle County residents receive discounted admission to the museum with a valid ID.
Explore the park's walking trails, which connect to the Northern Delaware Greenway for longer hikes.
Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free admission to the museum.

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Explore Rockwood Park & Museum on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Rockwood Park & Museum, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Rockwood Park & Museum is located at 4651 Washington Street Extension, Wilmington, DE 19809. From I-95, take exit 8 (Concord Pike) and follow signs to Wilmington. Turn onto Washington Street Extension and continue until you see the park entrance on your left. Parking is available on-site. Be aware that there are two parking lots, the lower lot for the walking trails and the upper lot closer to the Mansion. Parking is free.
Public Transport

The DART First State bus route 24 stops near Rockwood Park & Museum. From the Wilmington Transit Center, take route 24 and get off at the stop on Washington Street Extension near Rockwood Park. From there, it's a short walk to the park entrance. A one-way bus fare is $2.00.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Wilmington. A ride from downtown Wilmington to Rockwood Park & Museum typically takes about 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between $15 and $25 for a one-way trip.

Discover more about Rockwood Park & Museum

Rockwood Park & Museum, located in Wilmington, Delaware, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history, architecture, and natural beauty. Built between 1851 and 1854 by Joseph Shipley, a wealthy merchant banker, the estate reflects his love for English architecture and landscape design. The mansion itself is a prime example of Rural Gothic Revival architecture, a style that was considered cutting-edge at the time.Visitors can explore the historic house museum, which showcases how the Bringhurst family, descendants of Shipley, lived during the turn of the 20th century. The museum features original furnishings, family memorabilia, and an extensive clothing collection, offering a glimpse into the lives of the upper class during that era. Guided and self-guided tours are available, providing insights into the estate's history, architecture, and art collections.Beyond the mansion, Rockwood Park boasts 72 acres of serene parkland, including a six-acre historic garden. The gardens are designed in the Gardenesque style, featuring long vistas, curving paths, and diverse trees and shrubs. Visitors can also enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, and seasonal events such as the Delaware Shakespeare Festival and ghost tours. The park's combination of history, nature, and engaging programs makes it a worthwhile destination for tourists of all interests.